Basic Human Anatomy and Age-Related Changes Flashcards

Which age-related change to the cardiovascular system is most commonly observed in elderly patients?

Answer: Arteries become stiffer, leading to increased blood pressure

With aging, arterial walls lose elasticity and become stiffer (arteriosclerosis), causing the heart to work harder to pump blood and commonly resulting in elevated blood pressure (hypertension) in older adults.

An elderly patient's skin appears thin, dry, and fragile. Which age-related change best explains these characteristics?

Answer: Decreased production of collagen and reduced subcutaneous fat

With aging, the skin produces less collagen (which provides structural strength), loses subcutaneous fat (which provides cushioning and insulation), and oil gland activity decreases, resulting in thin, dry, and fragile skin that is more easily injured.

Which change in the musculoskeletal system is a normal part of the aging process?

Answer: Progressive loss of muscle mass and bone density

Normal aging brings sarcopenia (gradual loss of muscle mass and strength) and osteoporosis (decreased bone mineral density), both of which increase the risk of falls, fractures, and functional decline in elderly patients.

An elderly resident frequently says they are not hungry and eats very little at meals. Which age-related change most likely contributes to decreased appetite in older adults?

Answer: Decreased sense of taste and smell

Aging causes a significant decrease in the number of taste buds and olfactory (smell) receptors, making food less appealing and flavorful, which directly contributes to reduced appetite and food intake in elderly patients.

Why are elderly patients more susceptible to hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature) than younger adults?

Answer: They have decreased subcutaneous fat and reduced ability to shiver effectively

Elderly individuals have less subcutaneous fat for insulation, reduced muscle mass that limits heat-generating shivering, impaired circulation, and decreased thermoregulatory efficiency, all of which make them unable to maintain normal body temperature in cool environments.

Normal age-related changes in the urinary system include which of the following?

Answer: Reduced kidney function and decreased bladder muscle tone

With aging, kidney filtration rate (GFR) decreases by approximately 50% between ages 20 and 80, and the bladder muscle weakens, reducing capacity and leading to increased urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence.